Vestibular neuritis is a condition in which a viral infection affects the nerve that carries information from the inner ear about head movement. This nerve, the vestibular nerve, makes sure that you are balanced. When one nerve is affected, your body senses an imbalance and multiple symptoms can occur. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation (AHRF), initial treatment of vestibular neuritis includes medications that treat both the viral infection and the symptoms that you may be experiencing. Seek medical treatment if you have these symptoms of vestibular neuritis.
Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo are classic symptoms associated with vestibular neuritis, according to the AHRF. Dizziness is the sense that you are spinning and vertigo is the sensation that you are moving. This occurs because the infection causes inflammation of the vestibular nerve. This inflammation results in an incorrect signal sent to the brain, which results in dizziness and vertigo. Dizziness is constant initially, but begins to resolve after a few days, according to the AHRF. Seek proper diagnosis and treatment from your doctor if you have this symptom of vestibular neuritis.
Nausea
According to the AHRF, nausea is a common symptom associated with vestibular neuritis. However, nausea is a common symptom associated with many diseases from vestibular neuritis to pregnancy. This occurs because the signal from the vestibular nerve and optic (eyesight) nerve do not agree in the brain. This symptom can lead to a decrease in productivity at work, and can cause you to be miserable when at home with your family. Alert your doctor if you are experiencing this symptom. There are medications that can reduce the nausea that you may be experiencing.
Impaired Concentration
The Vestibular Disorders Association reports that impaired concentration is also a symptom of vestibular neuritis. This is most likely because dizziness and nausea can make it difficult to be comfortable and concentrate on certain tasks. You should not hesitate to see your doctor, because there are treatments that can help with these symptoms.
